Macksville High students graduate from educational pathways program

A GROUP of Year 10 students from Macksville High School have completed a week-long Educational Pathways Program (EPP) with NVC Group, gaining hands-on training and valuable insight into careers in the aged care sector.

The experience was part of a growing state-wide program now running in 183 government high schools across NSW, including Macksville High, Bowraville Central School, and schools in the Kempsey region.

The EPP was launched as a pilot in 2020, designed to enhance existing careers education by introducing real-world opportunities and connections to industries.

It provides schools with dedicated Careers Head Teachers and School-Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship (SBAT) Engagement Officers who work to support student access to training, employment, and tailored guidance.

As part of the NVC Group training, students completed First Aid certification, learned practical skills in communication and health care, and participated in simulated scenarios, including emergency response to such situations as heart attack and snake bite.

Their learning culminated in a small graduation ceremony held last Friday, attended by NVC and school staff, including Macksville High School Principal Sheree Burnham.

During the ceremony, students confidently demonstrated their training through role-play scenarios, impressing those present with their skill.

Amanda Davis, NVC Trainer and Assessor, praised the group’s attitude and effort.

“From what I’ve seen of the wonderful young people that you are and the way you’ve approached your time here, I’m sure you’ll all have amazing careers whatever you choose to do once you leave school,” she said.

Principal Burnham thanked both NVC and the school staff involved.

“This experience is something these students will never forget and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity they’ve been provided by NVC and I am also very appreciative of the work done by staff who made it possible here at NVC and from our school,” she said.

The students themselves also spoke in glowing terms about the experience.

One of the students, My-Linh, told News Of The Area, “I don’t know if I’ll end up working in aged care, but I do hope to have a job where I get to help people and this training has certainly helped me work toward that.”

Fellow student Isabella added, “The time spent at NVC has broadened my horizons and I’m now considering a range of employment options I hadn’t thought about before.”

Both students said the highlight of their experience was spending time with residents at Autumn Lodge, listening to their fascinating life stories and gaining a new appreciation for the community and care environment.

By Mick BIRTLES